How do we know the doctrine of a local church is true?

Scripture provides a firm foundation for the doctrine of the local church, as it demonstrates that the church is a body of believers gathered together for worship and mutual edification. Throughout the New Testament, particularly in Paul's letters, we see a pattern of teaching directed specifically to local assemblies, indicating their importance in God's plan for the church. For instance, Paul instructs the church at Corinth about various aspects of church life, emphasizing that these instructions pertain to a local setting where believers actively participate in their faith community. The very nature of the church, as seen in passages like 1 Corinthians 12, affirms that spiritual gifts are given for the profit of the entire assembly.